Chicago, IL (May 25, 2010) – Francis Cardinal George, OMI, Archbishop of Chicago, has ordained fifteen men as permanent deacons. The Diaconate ordination took place on Sunday, May 23, at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago.

The newly ordained deacons completed a four-year program at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake / Mundelein Seminary that included classes in Theology, Pastoral Ministry, Spiritual Formation and Communication/Collaboration. They will serve in their home parishes in Chicago, Arlington Heights, Chicago Heights, Matteson, Mundelein, Niles, Oak Forest, Oak Lawn, Orland Park, Palos Hills, Streamwood, Wadsworth and Winnetka.

Between 95 and 96 percent of deacons are married with families and most are also engaged in outside occupations. They are clergy, along with priests and bishops. The ministries that Deacons perform include the teaching mission of the Church, caring for the poor, performing baptisms and marriages, conducting funeral liturgies, presiding at wake services and assisting the priest at Mass by proclaiming the Gospel, preaching, leading intercessions, preparing the altar and intoning the dismissal.